Religious Leaders Urge Peace Amid Tensions Between Somalia and Ethiopia

MOGADISHU, Somalia – In the wake of escalating tensions, religious figures convened in Mogadishu, calling for tranquility and denouncing the controversial pact forged between Ethiopia and Somaliland. They assert that this agreement threatens Somalia’s territorial integrity and violates international law.

The scholars emphasized the necessity of safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty. They urged the populace to unite and remain calm, highlighting that collaboration with global allies could help fend off external threats and disrespect.

Clerics articulated the significance of defending Somalia’s core values against perceived aggressions. Ethiopia’s ambition to gain a 20-kilometer corridor to the Red Sea has sparked considerable opposition from Somali officials.

Affirming the nation’s right to forge alliances, the leaders pointed to recent collaborations with Egypt focusing on security and defense matters. Egypt has provided military aid, including weaponry, and dispatched naval and air forces to assist the Somali government.

“We will not accept this infringement on our national sovereignty by Ethiopia. It is our religious obligation to uphold Somalia’s independence and unity,” declared one cleric.

They urged all Somalis to remain steadfast in defending their homeland against all external threats, encompassing Ethiopia and other entities with ill intentions. Historically, relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been fraught, particularly during the tumultuous conflict of 1977.

Ethiopia maintains that access to the sea is crucial for its economic liberation, whereas Somalia questions the validity of such an accord with Somaliland, a region that seeks independence. In exchange, Ethiopia has offered to acknowledge Somaliland’s statehood.

AXADLETM